BapakIbu

Bapak Ibu is a traditional Indonesian expression used to address a mixed-gender audience, combining the honorifics Bapak (father, Mr.) and Ibu (mother, Mrs./Ms.). It functions as a polite, formal salutation in public address and communal settings.

In practice, speakers use Bapak Ibu at the start of speeches, meetings, religious gatherings, school assemblies, and official briefings to acknowledge all attendees respectfully. It signals formality and inclusivity for both men and women.

Origin and usage: The terms Bapak and Ibu are honorifics reflecting age and social status. When combined, they create a conventional address that has become standard in many Indonesian-speaking contexts.

Variants include Bapak Ibu with a space, Bapak-Ibu with a hyphen, and phrases like Bapak Ibu sekalian to intensify the address. In Malay-speaking contexts, equivalents include Tuan dan Puan.

Linguistic notes: While widely used, the form is gendered and primarily formal; in contemporary settings some speakers may opt for more inclusive language or use Bapak/Ibu or other neutral salutations where appropriate.